Former Nigeria defender Nduka Ugbade feels South Africa will not slip up in qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
A former Nigeria star has now tipped Bafana Bafana to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and highlighted how slim the Super Eagles’ chances are in comparison.
The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations finalists are currently without a manager after Finidi George handed in his resignation earlier this month, and according former Golden Eaglets coach Nduka Ugbade, recent performances indicate a grim future for the nation.
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After four CAF 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Nigeria yet to record a victory, drawing against Lesotho, Zimbabwe and South Africa, before suffering a shock 2-1 defeat to Benin earlier this month.
As a result, the three-time AFCON winners are fifth in Group C with just three points.
Speaking to Brila FM, Ugbade did not express much optimism while discussing the nation’s chances of qualifying for the next edition of the global showpiece.
“The chances for our qualification for the 2026 World Cup are very slim,” Ugbade said, per Soccernet.ng.
The former defender went on to emphasise the importance of beating Bafana away from home if the Super Eagles are to achieve what looks quite unlikely as things stand.
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The 54-year-old did, however, add that he does not feel the one-time AFCON champions will slip up.
“But in every difficulty, Nigeria always finds a way to do something,” Ugbade continued.
“The only chance we have is to win all our matches, both home and away; against Lesotho, Rwanda, and especially South Africa.
“We have to beat them in South Africa.
“With a reasonable mind, I know all things are possible, but the truth is, I don’t think South Africa will want to leave their position to Nigeria.
“I’m a Nigerian and I want us to qualify for the World Cup. Everything we can do to qualify I hope we do it to qualify, but, the truth is I don’t think South Africa will lose two or three matches.”
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Publish date : 2024-06-26 14:07:41
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